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Reading, PA \u2014 February 26, 2026 \u2014 Sen. Judy Schwank is providing an update on Pennsylvania\u2019s response to the ongoing surge in Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) cases and encouraging both producers and consumers to remain vigilant.<\/p>\n
Pennsylvania currently has the highest number of HPAI cases in the nation, and state officials are working aggressively to combat the spread.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur poultry industry contributes $7.1 billion to Pennsylvania\u2019s economy and supports thousands of farm families,\u201d Schwank said. \u201cWhen a flock is lost to this virus, it is not just a business setback. It\u2019s personally and financially devastating for the farmers.\u201d<\/p>\n
As chair of the Senate Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee, Schwank said she remains in close communication with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and is staying up to date on the issue. There are no known cases in Berks County at this time.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt this juncture, strict biosecurity is key to stopping the spread of HPAI,\u201d Schwank said. \u201cCommercial producers are taking extraordinary precautions, and backyard poultry hobbyists must play a role as well. Anyone with a backyard flock should closely monitor their birds for signs of illness and report suspected cases immediately to the Department of Agriculture.\u201d<\/p>\n
The General Assembly and the Shapiro Administration established the HPAI Recovery Fund in 2022 to support producers impacted by infection. Pennsylvania is the only state in the nation with a dedicated HPAI recovery fund. The program has served as a lifeline for farms that have lost a portion of their flock or needed to make biosecurity improvements. Applications for the latest round of funding close April 30.<\/p>\n
While the situation remains serious, HPAI presents a very low risk to the general public. Poultry products remain safe to consume when properly handled and cooked.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve made inquiries about egg availability heading into Easter and Passover, and I\u2019m pleased to report that Pennsylvania does not anticipate a shortage,\u201d Schwank said. \u201cFamilies can expect a safe, plentiful and affordable supply of fresh eggs for the holidays.\u201d<\/p>\n
Schwank encouraged consumers to support Pennsylvania\u2019s agricultural community by purchasing Pennsylvania-produced foods.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen shopping for eggs and poultry, look for the PA Preferred label on the carton,\u201d she said. \u201cChoosing Pennsylvania products helps strengthen our agricultural economy during challenging times.\u201d<\/p>\n